The study focused on the hippocampus, the brain region responsible for memory and learning. Scientists analyzed the effect of aerobic exercise on three key markers of Alzheimer's disease: amyloid plaques, tau formations, and iron accumulation in myelin-producing cells called oligodendrocytes. These changes are the main signs of the neurodegenerative process.
An experiment conducted on rodents found that animals that regularly performed aerobic exercise had a significant reduction in pathological changes. Thus, the number of tau formations decreased by 63%, amyloid plaques by 76%, and iron accumulation in the brain decreased by 58%.
These results indicate a powerful neuroprotective effect of aerobic exercise.
In addition, the group that engaged in physical activity showed an improvement in the health of brain cells. The number of protective oligodendrocytes increased, and inflammation in the brain decreased by 55-68%, depending on the type of inflammatory marker. An increase in the activity of neurons and an improvement in the communication between them were also recorded, which contributed to the restoration of normal brain function.
Dr Augusto Coppi, senior lecturer at the University of Bristol, said: “Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease with no effective cure, and physical activity is currently one of the few ways available to slow cognitive decline. Our study shows that aerobic exercise could be an important part of preventing and treating the disease.”
Scientists say regular aerobic exercise could play a key role in preventing or slowing the progression of Alzheimer's disease. They are calling on public health initiatives to focus on creating programs specifically designed for older people to help reduce the risks of neurodegenerative diseases.
The next stage of the research is clinical trials on humans, which will confirm the effectiveness of aerobic exercise in slowing the progression of Alzheimer's disease. In addition, scientists plan to develop drugs aimed at metabolism.